IRA Research Hub
Educational Guides
The most effective way to navigate the complexities of self-directed IRAs, including crypto and precious metals IRAs, is by relying on independent, IRS-cited educational guides that clarify key rules and regulations. Understanding rollover regulations is crucial, as improper rollovers can trigger taxes and penalties; for example, the IRS allows only 60 days to complete a rollover without tax consequences. Alternative asset rules, such as those governing cryptocurrencies and precious metals, require careful attention to IRS guidelines to ensure compliance and avoid disqualification of the IRA. Our guides provide detailed explanations of these rules, including the specific types of precious metals permitted and the tax implications of holding crypto assets within retirement accounts. While fees and service quality vary widely among custodians, our content focuses on educating investors to make informed decisions rather than endorsing specific providers. All information is presented strictly for educational purposes and does not constitute financial or legal advice. By using these resources, investors can better understand how to manage their retirement accounts effectively while adhering to IRS regulations and optimizing their tax strategies.
Self-Directed IRA Fundamentals
What Is a Self-Directed IRA? Complete Beginner's Guide (2026)
IRS rules, eligible asset classes, prohibited transactions, custodian roles, and how to evaluate providers independently.
How to Research SDIRA Providers: An Independent Framework
A step-by-step methodology for evaluating custodians using fee transparency, regulatory history, and operational track record.
IRA Rollover Rules: What the IRS Actually Says (2026)
The 60-day rule, one-rollover-per-year limit, direct vs. indirect transfers, and tax withholding requirements explained.
IRA Contribution Limits & Eligibility Rules (2026)
COLA-adjusted contribution caps, income phase-outs for Roth IRAs, catch-up contributions, and spousal IRA rules.
Required Minimum Distributions: Rules & Strategies (2026)
SECURE 2.0 changes, RMD age thresholds, calculation methods, Roth IRA exemptions, and penalty avoidance strategies.
IRA Tax Strategies for High-Income Earners
Backdoor Roth conversions, mega backdoor Roth, tax-loss harvesting inside IRAs, and UBIT considerations for alternative assets.
Cryptocurrency in IRAs
Crypto in Retirement Accounts: Rules, Risks & Tax Implications
How cryptocurrency is treated inside IRAs, IRS Notice 2014-21, UBIT exposure, and the structural risks unique to crypto custodians.
Crypto IRA vs. Buying Crypto Directly: A Structural Comparison
Tax treatment, custody models, fee structures, and liquidity differences between holding crypto in an IRA versus a personal wallet.
Precious Metals in IRAs
Precious Metals in IRAs: Gold, Silver & Diversification
IRS fineness requirements, approved depositories, storage rules, prohibited collectibles, and the real cost structure of precious metals IRAs.
Gold IRA vs. Gold ETF: Structural Differences Explained
Ownership structure, counterparty risk, expense ratios, liquidity, and tax treatment compared across physical gold IRAs and ETF alternatives.
Free Tax & Fee Insights
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Provider Comparison
| Provider | Best For | Min. Investment | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| BlockTrust IRA | Crypto IRA | No Minimum | 0.14% - 0.4% |
| Genesis Gold Group | Gold IRA | $10,000 | Varies |
| iTrustCapital | Low Fees | $1,000 | 1% Trade Fee |
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